Written answer by Ministry of National Development on reviewing home improvement programme age thresholds to accommodate younger flats with recurring spalling concrete and[...]

Question No: 1555
Question by: Dr Hamid Razak

To ask the Minister for National Development (a) whether HDB tracks complaint trends in flats under 30 years old relating to spalling concrete, structural cracks and ageing pipe sockets; and (b) whether the Ministry will consider reviewing home improvement programmes with age thresholds to accommodate younger flats with recurring defects.

Answer:

The Housing Development Board (HDB) tracks resident feedback on maintenance-related issues, including spalling concrete and structural cracks within HDB flats. Such issues are much less common in younger flats, compared to older flats above 30 years old. Issues relating to ageing pipe sockets, as well as spalling concrete and structural cracks affecting building facades come under the purview of Town Councils.

The Home Improvement Programme focuses on addressing safety and common maintenance issues related to older flats, and is implemented when blocks reach around 30 years of age.

HDB would retain the existing age eligibility criteria for HIP. For residents who require assistance but are not eligible for HIP, HDB provides support through the Goodwill Repair Assistance (GRA) scheme.